Trailspotting Hiking California, New Hampshire and More

Islands In The Sky, Russian River CA

• 4-star hikes
• 4 mile options
• Easy & Moderate | Gain 930 feet
• Duncan Mills, CA | Russian River
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A lone traveler walks along a narrow dirt path winding through a grassy field, their black backpack slung over their shoulders. They wear a red shirt and gray pants, contrasting against the sunlit greens and yellows of the landscape. The path leads toward rolling hills scattered with trees and bushes, creating depth in the scene. The sky is clear and blue, reinforcing the openness of the environment.

Rolling hills, distant mountains and coastal fog vistas await.

Mist clings to the forested slopes before revealing the panoramic rewards that await on the Islands In The Sky Vista Loop Trail. This varied hiking experience draws visitors to the Russian River area who seek woodland paths that culminate in sweeping views of rolling hills and distant mountains, with creeping coastal fog often creating a dramatic backdrop.

The trail combines two distinct segments: an accessible forest service road and a more challenging narrow hillside path that regularly washes out. Hikers can choose between completing the full loop or taking an out-and-back route along the easier section, though this alternative misses some of the elevated viewpoints.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Sky Vista Loop 4.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 930 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ 4★ Sky Vista Out & Back 4.0 mi out & back, easy, gain 930 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

P Free roadside parking

The trail is located within Sonoma Coast State Park and begins alongside a working cattle ranch. The initial section follows a fire road before connecting to the more technical single-track portion. Multiple spur trails lead to various viewpoints, including the Fern Tree View Point, where the landscape opens to reveal the namesake rolling hills, rising like islands from the landscape.

The terrain includes approximately 900 feet of gradual elevation gain as we ascend through dense redwood forest before emerging into sunny meadows with ocean views. The contrast between the shaded woodland sections and the open ridgeline creates a diverse hiking environment.

A tranquil rural scene featuring a lush green pasture where four cows graze peacefully. The field is bordered by dense trees and bushes, creating a natural enclosure. Rolling green hills stretch across the background, adding depth and scale to the composition. Above, the sky is clear and bright blue, reinforcing the serene and picturesque atmosphere of the landscape.

Cows graze in the meadow beside the trailhead.

The trail passes through different ecosystems, from redwood groves to grassland meadows, supporting varied wildlife and seasonal wildflowers. Weather conditions can change quickly, and mud may be present on the single-track sections, particularly after rain.

Roadside parking is available adjacent to the trailhead, though hikers should carefully observe posted signs to avoid citations and ensure access for other road users. No restroom facilities are available at the trailhead.

A close-up view of a banana slug on a forest floor. The slug is vibrant yellow with an elongated, moist, and slightly shiny body. The ground is covered in dark soil, scattered twigs, and fallen leaves, providing a textured backdrop. Surrounding the slug are various green plants, including ferns, adding to the rich forest environment. In the softly blurred background, tall trees stretch upward, their trunks and canopy filtering sunlight, casting dappled light onto the forest floor.

Watch out for Banana Slugs on the trail.

A person walks along a gravel path winding through a dense forest of towering coniferous trees. They wear a red shirt, dark pants, and carry a black backpack, blending into the natural surroundings while adding a pop of color. The ground is lush with ferns and other vegetation, creating a vibrant, textured landscape. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled light onto the path.

The wide Upper Freezeout Road out & is the easiest route.

A pair of figures stand atop a grassy hill, surrounded by lush green vegetation. The background showcases a mountain range covered in dense forest, with some peaks partially veiled by low-hanging clouds. The sky is a mix of blue and scattered clouds, enhancing the depth of the scene. The image conveys a sense of solitude and appreciation for nature’s vastness.

Windswept distant views at the top of the trail.

Tangents:
• AllTrails Public: Vista Loop
• Trailspotting Nearby: Armstrong Redwoods (½-2 mi)
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

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Islands In The Sky, Russian River CA